Family vacations are a great way to bond with your kids and create fond memories. Since lockdown just ended, leaving the house would be a good change for everyone. Not only does it reduce the family’s stress, increase productivity at work, and give you a break from everyday life, but new experiences can also help build kids’ self-confidence and real-life experiences outside the classroom.
In today’s age, due to the growth of technology, families have become more distant. Even if they are physically together, they are not spending quality time together. The majority of the time, they are staring down at their phones. An excellent way to break this is by going on a family outing with natural areas. Psychologists recommend these because they are some of the best ways to reduce stress and boost happiness. Africa is a very popular tourist destination.
Before going to your travel agent and asking for the first available ticket to Africa and hopping on the plane, there are many things that you need to consider, such as:
1) Where Do You Want To Go
If you decide to go to Africa, you need to know which parts. It is a big continent with 54 countries and between 48 to 252 natural and mixed cultural sites. Although Africa is a sight to behold, sightseeing everything won’t be easy. Also, consider that each location has different natural areas, from Safari parks to beaches and mountains. Sit down and start narrowing down which parts you want to see the most.
2) Documents
Some African countries allow citizens from the U.S. or U.K. to visit without a visa. So long as they stay for no more than 90 days. The rest have different rules on requiring one, while some South African countries allow visas on arrival. But it only lasts for 30 days. Your passports must be valid for six months from the date of entry and have at least two blank pages. These are the primary documents required. Copies of additional documents can also be helpful. But for requiring other documents depends on which part you plan on travelling. For extra information, a travel agent or its nearest embassy will provide the details you need.
3) What You’re Going To Pack
Make sure you plan ahead of time about what you will take. Remember, Africa is a continent with many natural districts, so it is best to plan accordingly. Clothes and shoes which are comfortable to travel in and long enough to cover most parts of the body due to the mosquitoes. Body cam glasses to help catch memorable events; without causing attention to yourself. Don’t forget the sunblock, but warm clothes for snow will be best depending on where and when you travel.
4) Start Saving Money
Create a budget for your vacation asap. Despite Africa’s low cost of living, it can be expensive for tourists who go sightseeing and take in different cuisines. Cutting down on expenses can make your trip more enjoyable. It will also be good to prepare extra money for unexpected changes. Since accidents or sudden cancellations can occur anywhere, one can never be too cautious or over-prepared
5) Vaccination
Some African countries have a vaccination rule. This rule does not allow foreigners to enter without being vaccinated. Even if you travel to one of the countries that do not make vaccination a requirement, Africa is a place with a lot of different fauna and flora, many of which can cause illnesses that are not as common in the city areas. There has even been a yearly spike in the mosquito population.
6) Travel Insurance
Travelling can be enjoyable, but there are chances of unexpected problems. A proper insurance package should cover expenses beyond your control, such as loss of personal belongings, i.e. baggage, passports, etc., missed or delayed departure, or medical and unexpected emergencies. Despite all its benefits, It is always advisable to consult a lawyer when choosing the right package.
Conclusion
Africa is a region rich in culture and nature. The research you do when planning helps make the trip more enjoyable. Keeping your load light, bringing the right supplies, planning fun activities, and everything else mentioned above will ensure a memorable and safe trip full of learning, fun, and relaxation for the whole family.